Prisons and Probation Ombudsman publishes independent investigation into birth of stillborn baby at HMP Styal

The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has published an independent investigation into the birth of a stillborn baby on 18 June 2020 at HMP Styal.

Sue McAllister, Prisons and Probation Ombudsman, was concerned that there were missed opportunities to identify the urgent clinical attention that Ms B, the baby’s mother needed during that evening.

Ms B was not aware she was pregnant until Baby B was delivered, and we have not found any evidence that staff missed obvious signs that she was. This does not diminish Ms B’s terrifying, painful and traumatic experience or the effects on the staff present, which were profound.  Even at a distance, this is a deeply sad and distressing case.

The investigation found gaps in prison nurse training about reproductive health, long-acting reversible contraception and recognition of early labour.  The PPO has made recommendations to remedy these issues in all women’s prisons.

Click here to view the report

Click here to view the press release

Click here to view the action plan

Click here to view the PPO’s independent investigation into the tragic death of a baby at HMP Bronzefield